The Origins of Project Rebound
The story of Project Rebound begins in 1967 at San Francisco State University, where founder Dr. John Irwin transformed his personal journey of transformation through education into a groundbreaking program for others. As someone who experienced incarceration firsthand, serving five years in Soledad Prison for armed robbery, Irwin understood the profound impact of higher education. During his imprisonment, he completed 24 college credits through a university extension program, which became the foundation for his future academic achievements. After his release, he earned his B.A. from UCLA and Ph.D. from UC Berkeley, ultimately becoming a respected Professor of Sociology and Criminology at San Francisco State University for 27 years.
Growth and Expansion
Project Rebound emerged from Dr. Irwin's commitment to creating pathways to higher education for formerly incarcerated individuals. Through this innovative model, hundreds of formerly incarcerated people have earned bachelor's degrees and advanced to postgraduate studies. In 2016, with support from the Opportunity Institute and CSU Chancellor Timothy White, Project Rebound expanded beyond San Francisco State University. Today, the program operates across 19 California State University campuses, demonstrating its significant impact and growth.
CSUSB Project Rebound: Leadership and Vision
At California State University, San Bernardino, Project Rebound was established in 2016 through the leadership of Dr. Carolyn Eggleston, Faculty Emeriti and Founding Program Coordinator for the Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation & Counseling, and Dr. Annika Anderson, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Sociology. The program thrives under a dedicated team, including Program Coordinator Michael Griggs, MSW, who builds and maintains essential relationships with campus services and community organizations to strengthen support networks for system-impacted students. The team includes Outreach Coordinator Sofia Alvarenga and Research and Internship Coordinator Dr. Andrea Giuffre. Student assistants work alongside the core staff and play a vital role in the program's daily operations. They manage essential tasks such as office communications, social media engagement, event coordination, and various support services that ensure the program runs smoothly and effectively serves its community.
Supporting Student Success
Project Rebound at CSUSB is committed to supporting ambitious students pursuing their Baccalaureate or Master's degrees. The program provides comprehensive support to ensure students can fully focus on their academic pursuits and personal growth. By connecting students with essential resources and support services, Project Rebound creates an environment where academic excellence and personal empowerment can flourish. This approach reflects the program's broader mission of building a community where all people, regardless of their past experiences with incarceration, can access quality education and create positive change in their lives and communities.